Monthly Archives: January 2026

Outcry as COSATMA impound private scholar transports  

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Picture: Scholar transport impounded in North West/Generic

By AGISANANG SCUFF

29 January 2026- The North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management said it has met with concerned operators, who render scholar transport services privately. This follows discontent raised by some operators in and around Mahikeng due to their vehicles being impounded during recent law enforcement operations.

The Head of Department (HoD), Dr Hans Kekana said since the re-opening of the schools three weeks ago, his department embarked upon operations across the province, focusing mainly on contraventions such as speeding, roadworthiness and overloading of transportations carrying learners. Kekana said that many of the vehicles that were impounded were found to be operating illegally, with vehicles that have defects or not contravening legislation that classifies vehicles for public transport services.

“The department is of the view that there is a significant knowledge gap generally amongst unorganised scholar operators regarding regulation in the sector along with requirements to acquire necessary operating licenses (OL) and Professional Driver Permit (PrDP).

“The meeting afforded an opportunity to close that gap. We have come to realise that many of the vehicles operating as private scholar transport, do not fall within the allocated categories in terms of the National Land Transport Act as well as the Road Traffic Act,” he said.

Kekana further said the operators also conceded that they were not aware of the requirements as per the regulations. He added that, therefore, encourages anyone who wants to operate within the sector, to do so by following the right procedures in order to be legally recognised and permitted.

“The department reiterates its stance on non-conditional business standards by operators ferrying the public as well as the learners. As the department, we will continue to enforce the law, where there is an offence being committed, the necessary corrective measures will apply. We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach, so that we avoid situations that compromise the safety of passengers.

“It therefore becomes very important for operators to empower themselves and to do research about the sector and all its legislation, to organise and collaborate with others through recognised associations and ensure that the service they render is efficient, effective and lawful,” said Kekana.

He said the department furthermore implores parents to ensure that operators procured privately to transport learners are within the law in the interests of learner safety. Kekana said they are making a call to parents to support our awareness programmes that are aligned to learner safety.

“This will empower them with valuable insight as and when they source service providers for scholar transportation,” he said.

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GCIS to host a country-wide community activations ahead of SONA

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By BAKANG MOKOTO

29 January 2026- Government Communication and Information Service (GCIS) said it is hosting country-wide community activities as part of raising and educating the public on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) and what the public can expect to hear from the President’ speech.      

The GCIS said SONA is an annual event, in which the President of South Africa addresses the nation on the programmes of government.

Ndlelantle Pinyana who is Chief Director: Provincial and Local Liaison in the GCIS said the address is delivered at a Joint Sitting of Parliament, including both the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and focuses on the current political and socio-economic state of the nation. Pinyana said the speech marks the opening of the Parliamentary programme and attracts interest from various stakeholders nationally and internationally as it sets the government agenda for the forthcoming year.

“GCIS in collaboration with other stakeholders will host outreaches in the form of activations, community media engagements, dialogues (i.e. Access to Information, Community Radio, Community TV, Mall and Taxi Rank Activations, Road Intersection Activations, School Activation, support to Mayors and Provincial State of the Provincial Address), as well as Public Educations sessions and civic education awareness to encourage the public to participate and follow the 2026 SONA through mainstream media, and online and digital platforms.

“GCIS will also be encouraging the public to comment on what they would want the President to say during his speech and subsequent SONA reply to the debate post SONA,” he said.

Pinyana further said the outreaches aim to encourage members of the public to participate in the upcoming SONA by watching TV, listening to community media or being part of the event through social media by following #SoNA2026 on various social media platforms. He added that the outreaches will also be encouraging and collation of data from the public on what they expect the government and the President to urgently address.

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Police conduct awareness on GBVF-related issues  

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Picture: The police conducting awareness/Supplied      

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

29 January 2026- The Galeshewe SAPS Social Crime Prevention Section jointly with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) hosted an awareness campaign focusing on Domestic Violence and GBVF related issues at the Shoprite Shopping Centre in Barkly Road in Kimberley on 29 January 2026. The multi-disciplinary integrated team from the Justice Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS) comprising of the Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, Social Crime, and various sections within the NPA such as Sexual Offences Community Affairs, Community Prosecution, Maintenance Office and  Entity Thuthuzela Care Centre.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said the Galeshewe Crime Prevention and Galeshewe Sectors, SAPS Women’s Network and Safety Participants   rendered services to the community and the shoppers using the SAPS Mobile Community Service Centre (CSC) that was parked at the Centre’s parking lot, bringing service closer to the communities. Shemane said the multi-disciplinary teams engaged community members and shoppers and distributed information pamphlets.

“This type of engagement brings stakeholders together in an effort to sensitize community members about GBVF related incidents as it was declared by the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa as a national disaster.

“Furthermore, the team distributed and shared safety hints on the prevention of human trafficking, substance abuse, pedestrian safety, domestic violence and other safety measures,” he said.

Shemane further said SAPS in the Northern Cape together with the JCPS cluster, remains committed in serving its communities by proactively engaging them and taking their safety into consideration.

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ANC in North West prepares for its highly-anticipated ANC provincial elective conference    

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Picture: ANC Top 5 in North West

By OBAKENG MAJE

29 January 2026- The ANC in North West said it will hold its 10th Provincial Elective Conference on 26 until 30 March 2026. This comes after the ANC Provincial Executive Committee’s decision taken during the Provincial General Council outcome held at Madiba Banquet Hall, in Potchefstroom on 29 until 30 November 2025.

The ANC provincial secretary, Louis Diremelo said all branches in the province were represented, resolved unanimously and agreed with the PEC that the 10th ANC Provincial Elective Conference must be held on 26 – 30 March 2026. Diremelo said in the PGC, the approved roadmap outlined that membership cut-off date was on 31 December 2025.

“The resolution of the PGC affects 403 potential branches in the province. In other words, the current ward boundaries (2021 maps) as per the Municipal Demarcation Board (MDB) apply. The recent publication of the maps by the MDB leading to the Local Government Elections which must be held anytime from November 2026 – February 2027, do not apply for the purposes of convening the 10th ANC Provincial Elective Conference.

“Where members and/or branches have sought to realign ANC branches according to the recent publication of maps by the MDB outside the directive of the ANC PEC, that process must be reversed,” he said.

Diremelo further said Rules 7.2 as read together with Rules 19.9.12.1 and 21 of the ANC Constitution, 2022 are clear where the authority lies in so far as establishment and/or re-establishment of branches is concerned. He added that all branches are directed to begin convening their pre BBGMs/BGMs to attend to membership challenges and any other matter/s pertaining to the convening of successful BBGMs/BGMs.

“Branches must also start submitting dates for their BBGMs/BGMS, the deadline for convening these meetings en route to the 10th ANC NW Provincial Conference is 15 February 2026. All branches with membership challenges must contact the ANC NW Membership Officer, Cde Yonela Mtwa on 084 275 6541 or at mtwaayonela@gmail.com,” said Diremelo.

The current ANC deputy chairperson and North West Premier, Lazarus Mokgosi is contesting for the provincial chairperson position, while the current ANC provincial chairperson, Nono Maloyi wants to be elected for the second term amid factional politics at play.

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Agri X Fusion 2026 launched to align research and industry for South Africa’s red meat sector

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Picture: Gerhard Diedericks and Koos Nel (Agri X Group), Corlia Oberholzer (RMIS), Prof Simon Letsoalo (North-West University School of Agricultural Sciences – Mahikeng Campus), Lwandisa Makapula (IDC) and Prof HB Klopper (Agri X Group)/Supplied 

By REGINALD KANYANE

29 January 2026- Agri X officially launched the Agri X Fusion Series of Events in Pretoria, starting with the Red Meat Value Chain, marking the first in a series of initiatives designed to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry and secure the future of South Africa’s agricultural value chains. The Agri X Fusion Red Meat Value Chain event will be held on 4–5 March 2026 at the North West University (Mahikeng Campus), bringing together producers, researchers, feedlots, processors, industry bodies, policymakers and value-chain partners in a first-of-its-kind, outcomes-driven initiative.

Agri X Director, Gerhard Diedericks said with rising input costs, climate pressure and biosecurity risks and shifting export markets, stronger coordination between research, industry and policy has become a business necessity rather than a long-term ideal. Diedericks said Agri X Fusion 2026 will address the most pressing challenges facing the major value chains, ensuring closer alignment between industry needs, research priorities, innovation investment, and skills development.

“The Fusion Series is designed to move beyond discussion and produce tangible outcomes, including research pilots, commercial partnerships, skills initiatives, and innovation projects aligned with real industry needs. The programme in March covers genetics, feeding strategies, biosecurity, market access, climate resilience, and value-chain competitiveness.

“Structured matchmaking sessions will enable direct collaboration between industry stakeholders, researchers, and key role players, ensuring that discussions translate into practical action,” he said.

CEO of Red Meat Industry Services (RMIS), Dewald Olivier said they welcomed the initiative saying: “The sustainability and competitiveness of South Africa’s red meat value chain depend on stronger alignment between industry needs and research capacity. Agri X Fusion 2026 provides a bridge to tackle real challenges with evidence-based

solutions.

“RMIS fully supports this platform as a crucial step toward securing the future of our industry. Programme for Action and Impact Day one will feature expert presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions. Day two will also focus on pre-booked, one-on-one meetings, allowing participants to engage directly with industry leaders, researchers, and potential business partners, translating insights into concrete collaboration and strategic partnerships.”

Olivier further said these sessions are structured around predefined industry needs and research capabilities, ensuring that meetings are purposeful and geared toward concrete collaboration and follow-through. He added that, in parallel, Agri X has developed a digital collaboration platform (http://agrix-fusion.com/) to support the Fusion initiative before, during, and after each event.

“The platform will help connect stakeholders, structure engagements, and carry conversations forward into practical projects and partnerships. The web platform will evolve into the full app-enabled platform as the initiative grows. The invitation to platform also creates structured visibility and partnership opportunities for sponsors, funders, and solution providers seeking credible access to industry-led innovation and applied research.

“All industry role-players are invited to attend, sponsor, or partner with Agri X Fusion 2026 to enhance visibility, secure high-value networking opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to shaping South Africa’s red meat sector,” said Olivier.

The Red Meat Value Chain event is the first in a national Fusion Series that will extend to other strategic agricultural value chains over the next two years.

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Opinion: The pain of being labelled Goolam: Convicted without evidence

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(Note: Mr Cornelius Tanana Monama is the spokesperson to the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodin. He wrote the above content in his personal capacity and the utterances shared here do not represent The Guardian Newspaper nor its associates. The content remains of Mr Monama) 

By Cornelius Tanana Monama

29 January 2026- The news of Goolam’s death is opening old wounds. For far too long, I lived under the shadow of a lie. I was wrongly accused with malicious intent of being the person behind the notorious “Goolam” Twitter account – a baseless allegation built on nothing more than suspicion and rumour.

That falsehood inflicted deep and lasting pain, isolating me within government circles and within the very movement I continue to serve with unwavering dedication. People I once regarded as friends, comrades and respected leaders began to treat me as a pariah – a persona non grata. I carried that anguish alone, wrapped in the heavy silence of loneliness. My life and the lives of my family were threatened.

Fear became my constant companion. At first, when the accusations came from those in opposing camps, I tried to brush them off and take them in stride. But when my own comrades and leaders joined the chorus, echoing the same unfounded claims without a shred of evidence, my modest world was shattered.

Doors to opportunities were slammed shut in my face. In meetings, I endured snide remarks meant to unsettle and humiliate me. When I crossed paths with certain leaders, their looks carried unmistakable contempt and hostility. If looks could kill, I know I would have died a million times. I sat in meetings, cutting a lonely figure – defeated, withdrawn, my spirit quietly eroded.

Not one of those who chose to believe the lie paused to seek the truth. In that moment, I learned what it means to stand accused of a crime I did not commit. Not one asked the simplest, most fundamental question: Where is the evidence? Instead, I was convicted in the court of public opinion without trial, publicly skinned alive and left to the wolves by people I thought were my comrades and leaders.

My feelings, my truth, my side of the story simply did not matter. Yet, in my heart of hearts, I knew that one day – perhaps not even in my lifetime – these lies would be subjected to honest scrutiny, and that only history would be capable of absolving me. I have always trusted the moon would be my witness.

I have borne this wound quietly for far too long. The last two years have been the loneliest and most painful years of my life. Today, I hope and pray that those who placed me in this cruel position will one day find it within their hearts to acknowledge their error. This is all that justice and simple humanity demand. Apology is about healing.

It is about restoring what was so unjustly torn apart. And it is about reclaiming the dignity that every human being deserves.

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Women receive tools to produce food in Kabe

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Picture: The handover ceremony of essential tools, led by the North West MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development, Madoda Sambatha, was attended by the North West MEC for Social Development, Susanna Basetsana Dantjie, the Chair of Chairs, Tebogo Modise from the Provincial Legislature, as well as the traditional leadership of Kabe represented by Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi

By OBAKENG MAJE

28 January 2026- The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) have brought renewed hope and practical support to women in Kabe village, outside Mahikeng through the donation of essential agricultural tools. The department said this initiative is set to strengthen household food security, create livelihoods, and restore dignity within the community.

The North West MEC for DARD, Madoda Sambatha said by equipping women with the means to cultivate their own food, the programme promotes self-reliance and resilience. Sambatha said it also encourages sustainable farming practices that will benefit future generations.

“Beyond food production, these tools open opportunities for income generation and local economic growth.  The programme forms part of the department’s broader work to empower women and build sustainable food systems at the local level.

“This intervention is about more than tools; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and self-reliance. When we support women in agriculture, we are directly supporting families, fighting poverty, and strengthening food security,” he said.

Sambatha further said these women are not just beneficiaries, but producers and partners in the development of the province. He added that hunger and poverty expose communities, especially women and children to numerous social ills.

“By supporting food production initiatives such as this one, we are helping to strengthen the social fabric of our society. We will continue working closely with the North West Department of Social Development to ensure that these women receive the necessary support to make their projects sustainable,” said Sambatha.

He said the tool donation in Kabe marks another practical step by the provincial government to place women at the centre of agricultural development, ensuring they are not only recipients of aid, but active drivers of food production, economic participation, and community resilience. Sambatha said through rural development and food security programmes, this initiative will be expanded to communities across all four districts of the province.

“By equipping women with the tools and skills to cultivate their own livelihoods, we are fostering self-reliance, reducing dependency, and building resilient households,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Keabetswe Methikga, expressed deep gratitude for the support received from the department.

“These tools will truly make a huge difference in our lives. We have always loved working the land, but the lack of resources often discouraged us. After today, everything feels different. Even the birds that used to destroy our crops will no longer be a problem, because we now have nets to protect our gardens.

“Before this, we struggled to farm with very limited equipment. Some days we had to borrow, and on other days we couldn’t plant at all. With these tools, we can finally work the land properly, grow enough food for our families, and even sell produce to support our children,” said Methikga.

The traditional leadership welcomed the initiative and pledged their continued support.

Speaking on behalf of the Royal House, Kgosana Keesilwe Mokgosi said: “As custodians of the land, we are pleased to see the government working hand in hand with our communities. When our women are empowered to produce food, the entire village benefits.

“We commit ourselves to supporting all beneficiaries, encouraging active participation, and ensuring that these tools are used for their intended purpose.”

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SANSBOC commits to urgent scholar transport interventions

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Picture: Scholar Transport in North West/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

28 January 2026- Following the South African Human Rights Council’s (SAHRC) report on systematic challenges within Scholar Transport, the South African National Small Bus Operator Council (SANSBOC) in the North West, has committed to work together with the government in finding and implementing urgent solutions towards effective delivery of the service. On 28 January 2026, SANSBOC met with the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, as well as senior management of the department to make a commitment towards improving scholar transport in the province.

The SANSBOC chairperson, Final Kgodumo said as part of their submission to the department, they reflected on the key findings within the SAHRC report and these include amongst others routine use of unroadworthy vehicles, unsafe vehicle and frequent breakdowns, overcrowding leading to increased risks and exhaustion. Kgodumo said this includes systematic failures emanating from lack of contract management and enforcement, violation of the constitutional rights of learners to basic education, as well as the impact of transportation challenges on routine school attendance.

“SANSBOC wants to highlight that it takes these matters and many others as raised in the report seriously. The council undertakes to respond to all aspects that implicate its members and others that seek to improve the industry.

“However, the council would also like to indicate that it has in the past raised similar problems as in the SAHRC report in relation to the defects in the management of scholar transport in the province. The council believes that the report has now brought to light many issues and calls on all stakeholders responsible to roll up sleeves towards radical change in the service,” he said.

Kgodumo further said noting its wider reach of at least 80% of public scholar transport offering countrywide, SANSBOC pledges to make an effort towards delivery of quality service and protecting the basic right of education to learners. He added that as an immediate response to the findings thereof, SANSBOC in North West has escalated the report to its national office.  

Kgodumo said together with the mother body, the council is currently putting measures in place. He said SANSBOC National Research and Business Advisory unit is in the process of compiling a detailed response to the report.

“The unit will also develop a discussion paper where all provinces will make proposals towards improving the scholar transport service. Plans are afoot to train operators on Learner Transport Operations, Policy Compliance and duty of care.

“The council also plans to put in place an industry self-regulation protocol which will require operators to meet certain requirements before they can be certified to operate and the council will be rolling out a training programme for Leaner Transport Drivers, which will include Basic First Aid, Fire Fighting, Evacuation Procedures, Managing Learner in transit, Understanding Human Factors and Hazard perception Testing,” said Kgodumo.

He said SANSBOC welcomes the SAHRC report and believes the directives proposed as well as the reforms tabled in the discussion with the department of COSATMA will go a long way in the improvements within the sector. Kgodumo said the council acknowledges that many as many other stakeholders come on board, more measures will be brought forward, and some changes can only be achieved in the long term.

“On delayed payments, the department has indicated that it is still engaging with Provincial Treasury for more financial aid towards payment of operators. Feedback in this regard is expected from the Provincial Treasury within 7 days.

“SANSBOC has urged the department to intervene urgently as persistent lack of payment is frustrating operators and this might affect scholar transport services and learners. SANSBOC also wishes to commend Morweng for his acknowledgement of the Council as one of the key stakeholders in advancing scholar transport in the province,” he said.

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DA demands Parliament debate film industry crisis as Tau goes silent on R663m in rebates

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Picture: Minister of Trade and Industry, Parks Tau

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI  

28 January 2026- The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for a debate of national importance in Parliament to urgently address the crisis facing South Africa’s film and television industry. The DA said it supports the hundreds of industry professionals marching to Parliament today to protest the non-payment of R663 million in rebates owed to them — a failure that threatens the survival of the industry and the loss of thousands of jobs.

DA spokesperson on Trade, Industry and Competition and Member of Parliament (MP), Toby Chance said they have written to Minister of Trade and Industry, Parks Tau to demand that he revive the Film and Television Incentive Programme and address the sector’s complaints. Chance said for over 20 years, this programme has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s film industry, attracting major global productions and creating high-value, high-employment opportunities.

“Camera operators, grips, sound engineers, producers, directors, actors, make-up artists, travel operators and many more professionals now face indefinite unemployment as production companies abandon South Africa for countries like Malta and Portugal, which offer thriving incentive programmes.

“The DTIC has allowed this programme to wither, with the last adjudication panel meeting taking place in March 2024. In response to a written question, Minister Tau admitted that lack of funds has stalled payments. This is unacceptable: companies spent millions of rands in good faith, relying on approved projects and promised rebates,” he said.

Chance further said that while Tau is willing to allocate billions to programmes with far lower returns, including a proposed Afreximbank loan to fund the Transformation Fund. He added that Tau must restart the Film and Television Incentive Programme immediately and pay all outstanding rebates. Further delays risk the collapse of a once-thriving industry and the erasure of South Africa’s world-renowned scenery and heritage from screens across the globe.

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Parents found guilty of child neglect

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Picture: Parents found guilty of child neglect/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO

28 January 2026- The parents of an infant were each sentenced to five years imprisonment after they were found guilty of child neglect by the Kakamas Regional Court on 23 January 2026.

The father (39) man and the mother (32), were arrested in Kakamas on 21 September 2025, after their daughter was found in a poor physical condition and also showing signs of neglect.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the infant was admitted for medical tests at the Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington, after she was removed from her parents care by social workers, prior to their arrest. Litabe said they were both released on warning and the child was placed in the care of her grandmother.

“Both sentences for the couple, were wholly suspended for five years. Sergeant Derick Dippenaar of the Kakamas Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit was assigned to investigate the case,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Zweletlanga Fatman Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended Dippenaar for his diligent investigative work ensuring that the parents are held accountable for the neglect of the child.

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